The 2009 schedule has been released. NC State, which is expected to be one of the contenders to take the Atlantic Division crown, will have eight homes games, but their four road tilts, all in conference action, includes a trip to Blacksburg, Va., for the first time since 2004.[details]

The good: Thomas is a huge, agile blocker who combines explosive quickness with a physical blocking style. He is so talented that he raises the level of the players around him. Thomas entered college as a tight end and moved to defensive end before finding a home at offensive tackle. He has rare size along with nimble footwork, which are both ideal qualities for a left tackle. He can handle one-on-one blocking assignments against top speed rushers. He has good football intelligence and a very good feel and understanding for his position. He knows how to use his long reach and frame to shield off rushers. Thomas was outstanding in the agility and positional drills at the NFL Scouting Combine.

The bad: Thomas tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a Capital One Bowl victory over Auburn that ended his junior season. The knee might not be much of a concern anymore, as Thomas recovered well enough to earn All-America honors the following year.

Outlook: Thomas is a tough, agile tackle in the mold of Tony Boselli. He will probably be one of the first five picks in the draft. The Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns and Tampa Bay Buccaneers love him and have him on their short lists. He could become the best in the game within a short time period. Thomas is a future Pro Bowler.

This is special to Rivals.com from Frank Coyle. Coyle has written about the NFL Draft in his newsletter for more than...[Complete Bio]